Myanmar’s Miss Universe contestant used the pageant to criticize the military government that seized power in February. The contestant, Thuzar Wint Lwin, spoke out in a video message created for the pageant, which took place Sunday in Hollywood, Florida. Our people are dying and being shot by the military every day, she said in the video. Myanmar’s military overthrew the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. The government has used deadly force against individuals protesting the overthrow. Activist groups say nearly 800 people have been killed by security forces in demonstrations across the country. More than 5,000 people have been arrested in connection with protests. "I would like to urge everyone to speak about Myanmar," Thuzar Wint Lwin said. "As Miss Universe Myanmar since the coup, I have been speaking out as much as I can," she added. The Miss Universe contestant is among numerous well-known individuals in Myanmar to voice opposition to the military takeover. Thuzar Wint Lwin did not make it to the final round of the pageant. She did, however, win the award for Best National Costume. It was based on the ethnic clothing of her Chin people from northwestern Myanmar. During the costume competition, she raised a sign over her head that read: “Pray for Myanmar.” Mexico’s Andrea Meza won the Miss Universe competition.